Social Science vs Social Studies: Course & Career Guide

Choosing the right academic path often begins with understanding the subjects you study. Two terms that students frequently come across, social science and social studies may sound similar but have different meanings, purposes, and career scopes.  

While social science focuses on studying human behaviour, society, and its structures through research and analysis, social studies introduces students to topics like history, civics, geography, and culture at the school level to build civic awareness and critical thinking. 

If you’re an Indian student aiming to study in the US, UK, or other top universities from any other country, knowing the difference between social science and social studies is key. 

What is the Differences Between Social Science and Social Studies? 

Though social science and social studies sound similar, they differ in purpose, content, approach, and real-world applications. 

Social Science is the systematic and research-based study of human behaviour, society, and its institutions. It includes specialised fields like sociology, economics, political science, psychology, and anthropology, focusing on understanding social patterns, relationships, and decision-making. 

Social Studies, on the other hand, is an integrated school-level subject that combines history, civics, geography, and culture to help students understand society, develop civic awareness, and build social responsibility. 

The table below highlights the key distinctions: 

Aspect	Social Science	Social Studies
Purpose	To research, analyse, and explain social patterns and structures.	To educate students about society and develop civic awareness.
Subjects	Sociology  Economics  Political Science  Anthropology  Psychology  International Relations, etc.	History  Civics  Geography  Basic Economics  Culture
Scope	Broad and specialised  Focuses on advanced academic research and professional expertise.	Introductory and general  Builds a foundation for understanding society.
Methodology	Uses analytical, scientific, and research-based techniques like surveys, experiments, and data analysis.	Relies on classroom learning, discussions, storytelling, and projects.
Level of Study	Studied mainly at undergraduate, postgraduate, and research levels.	Primarily taught at school level as part of the syllabus.
Career Prospects	Opens roles in:   Policy  Research  HR  Data science  International relations  Development sectors.	Mostly supports careers in:   Teaching  Education  Community services.

Social Science vs Social Studies: What is the Syllabus? 

The syllabus for social studies and social science differs in terms of depth, subjects, and level of study. While social studies is part of the school curriculum, social science comes into focus at higher education levels with specialised courses and research opportunities. 

What does Social Studies include? 

At the school level, social studies is designed to build awareness about society, history, and governance. It integrates multiple subjects into a single curriculum, focusing on civic responsibility and cultural understanding. 

Typical topics covered in school-level social studies: 

• History: Ancient, medieval, and modern periods 
• Civics: Rights, duties, government structure, and democracy 
• Geography: Landforms, climate, environment, and natural resources 
• Basic Economics: Trade, budgeting, and economic growth 
• Culture & Society: Traditions, diversity, and heritage 

The goal is to familiarise students with society’s structure and functioning, preparing them for higher learning. 

How Basics in Social Studies Lead to Social Science? 

The foundation built in social studies paves the way for exploring social science disciplines at higher levels. 

• Students gain a basic understanding of society, politics, and history through social studies. 
• At college and university levels, these subjects are studied in-depth as individual disciplines within social science. 
• For example: 
• Basic civics -> Political Science 
• Cultural studies -> Anthropology or Sociology 
• Economic concepts -> Economics and Development Studies 

Thus, social studies acts as the entry point for pursuing specialised social science fields. 

 

What are the Specialisations in Social Science and Social Studies? 

The scope of social studies and social science varies widely. While social studies offers integrated learning at the school level, social science provides in-depth, specialised fields at higher education levels.  

Understanding these specialisations helps students choose the right academic and career paths. 

What are the Specialisations in Social Studies?  

Social Studies specializations focus on teaching methods and community engagement. For example, Western Illinois University offers 11 undergraduate and 8 graduate programs. 

Social studies is part of the school curriculum and introduces students to a broad mix of subjects rather than offering separate specialisations. However, it focuses on five key areas: 

1. History 

• Understanding ancient, medieval, and modern events 
• Learning how societies, cultures, and nations evolved 

2. Civics (Political Awareness) 

• Basics of democracy, governance, and citizens’ rights 
• Understanding laws, policies, and administrative structures 

3. Geography 

• Study of landscapes, climates, resources, and human settlements 
• Awareness of environmental issues and sustainable development 

4. Basic Economics 

• Introduction to trade, budgeting, money management, and markets 
• Developing financial literacy from an early stage 

5. Cultural & Social Awareness 

• Exploring diversity, traditions, and heritage 
• Promoting tolerance, equality, and global citizenship 

Social studies builds a strong foundation for students who later choose to specialise in social science disciplines. 

What are the Specialisations in Social Science? 

Degrees in Social Science often lead to advanced studies like an MA in Sociology at the University of Calgary, while Social Studies graduates may pursue education-focused programs such as the Master of Arts in Teaching Mathematics at Stony Brook University. 

Core Social Science Specialisations: 

• Sociology: Study of social behaviour, institutions, and cultural norms 
• Economics: Analysis of markets, resources, and economic systems 
• Political Science: Governance, policymaking, and political structures 
• Anthropology: Human evolution, culture, and social development 
• Psychology: Human behaviour, cognition, and mental processes 

Emerging & Interdisciplinary Specialisations: 

• International Relations: Global diplomacy, trade, and foreign policy 
• Development Studies: Poverty, sustainability, and economic growth 
• Criminology & Forensic Studies: Crime patterns, law enforcement, and justice systems 
• Environmental Studies: Climate change, policy, and sustainable development 
• Gender & Migration Studies: Equality, social justice, and human rights 

Many top universities abroad offer interdisciplinary programs combining social sciences with data analytics, policy research, and technology, opening doors to international careers. 

 

Social Science vs Social Studies: What are Higher Studies Opportunities Abroad? 

While social studies provides a foundation at the school level, social science opens up a wide range of opportunities for higher education abroad. Leading universities worldwide offer specialised programs, interdisciplinary courses, and research-driven degrees that prepare students for global careers. 

Popular Undergraduate Courses 

• BA in Sociology / Anthropology / Political Science 
• BSc in Psychology / Behavioural Science 
• BA in International Relations / Global Studies 
• BSc in Economics / Development Studies 
• BA in Criminology / Public Policy 

While social studies isn't offered as a standalone degree abroad, its school-level concepts act as a stepping stone for these specialised programs. 

Popular Postgraduate Courses 

• MA in Social Sciences (interdisciplinary) 
• MSc in Data Analytics for Social Research 
• MA in Development Studies / International Affairs 
• MSc in Environmental Policy & Sustainability 
• Master’s in Public Policy / Human Rights / Gender Studies 

Research and PhD Opportunities 

For students interested in academic and research careers, top institutions abroad offer PhD programs focusing on: 

• Comparative Politics 
• Global Development Studies 
• Social Psychology 
• Migration & Human Rights 

• Digital Society & Behavioural Analytics 

   

What Top Global Universities Offer Social Science Programs? 

The following global universities offer social science programs. 

University	Country	Popular Programs
Harvard University	USA	Sociology, Psychology, Public Policy
University of Oxford	UK	Anthropology, Politics, Development Studies
University of Melbourne	Australia	Social Work, Global Studies, Gender Studies
University of Toronto	Canada	Economics, Criminology, International Relations
Leiden University	Netherlands	International Studies, Public Administration

 

Social Science vs Social Studies: What is the cost of Studying? 

The cost of studying social science abroad varies depending on the country, university, and program level. While social studies is a school-level subject, social science involves undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs that require tuition, living expenses, and other fees.  

Understanding the costs helps students plan their higher education effectively. 

Top Universities’ Tuition Fees for Social Science: 

University	Tuition Fees   (USD / Local Currency)	Approx. INR Equivalent
Harvard University	$50,000 – $55,000	₹41,00,000 – ₹45,00,000
University of Oxford	£30,000 – £40,000	₹32,00,000 – ₹43,00,000
University of Toronto	CAD 45,000 – 55,000	₹27,00,000 – ₹33,00,000
University of Melbourne	AUD 40,000 – 45,000	₹26,00,000 – ₹29,00,000
Leiden University	€15,000 – €20,000	₹14,00,000 – ₹19,00,000

Note: Please note that these figures are approximate and can vary based on specific programs, additional fees, and exchange rate fluctuations. 

Also read: Cheapest Country to Study Abroad for Indian Students 

 

What are the Career Prospects in Social Science and Social Studies? 

The career opportunities differ significantly between social studies and social science, reflecting the level of study, specialization, and global applicability. While social studies primarily builds a foundation, social science opens doors to specialized, research-driven, and international careers. 

Top Careers After Social Science Degrees 

Graduates in social science can pursue a variety of high-demand roles across sectors: 

• Policy Analyst / Public Policy Expert – advising governments or NGOs 
• Economist / Development Economist – working in financial institutions, think tanks, or global agencies 
• Sociologist / Anthropologist – research, academia, or consultancy 
• Psychologist / Behavioural Scientist – clinical, research, or organisational roles 
• International Relations Specialist / Diplomat – global organizations or embassies 
• Data Analyst for Social Research – leveraging statistical and research skills 

Social science careers often combine research, analytical skills, and global exposure. 

Careers Related to Social Studies Education 

Students with a social studies background can pursue careers focused on education and community development: 

• School Teacher / Educator – history, civics, geography 
• Curriculum Developer – designing educational content 
• Educational Consultant / Administrator – managing school programs 
• Community Outreach Coordinator – NGOs and local initiatives 

Social studies provides a strong foundation for teaching and civic engagement careers. 

What are the International Job Opportunities? 

Social science graduates have access to global career paths with competitive salaries. The following table gives approximate salaries that you can expect to get abroad. 

Job Role	Average Salary (USD)	Average Salary (INR)
Policy Analyst	$60,000 – $90,000	₹50,00,000 – ₹75,00,000
Economist / Development Expert	$55,000 – $85,000	₹46,00,000 – ₹71,00,000
International Relations Officer	$50,000 – $80,000	₹41,00,000 – ₹66,00,000
Data Analyst (Social Research)	$50,000 – $75,000	₹41,00,000 – ₹62,00,000
Sociologist / Anthropologist	$45,000 – $70,000	₹37,00,000 – ₹58,00,000

Salaries vary based on experience, country, and employer. 

What are Emerging Fields in Social Science? 

The modern job market increasingly values interdisciplinary skills, combining social science with data, technology, and policy analysis: 

• Data-Driven Social Research – using analytics for policy, urban planning, or social programs 
• Behavioral Economics & Policy Design – applying psychology and economics to decision-making 
• Digital Governance & Public Policy – technology-enabled civic solutions 
• Sustainability & Development Analytics – global projects on climate, development, and society 

These emerging fields offer high-demand roles with global relevance. 

 

How to Choose between Social science and Social studies? 

While choosing between the two disciplines, you should consider the following: 

1. Academic Level: 
   1. Social studies is ideal at the school level for a broad understanding of society, history, and civics. 
   2. Social science is suited for higher education with specialisation and research opportunities. 
2. Interests: 
   1. Social studies focuses on society, culture, geography, and civic awareness. 
   2. Social science involves research, critical thinking, and in-depth study of disciplines like sociology, economics, and political science. 
3. Career Goals: 
   1. Social studies supports teaching or foundational roles. 
   2. Social science opens pathways to policy, research, international careers, and higher studies abroad. 
4. Global Opportunities: Social science offers wider options for studying and working internationally. 
5. Skill Development: 
   1. Social science develops analytical, research, and problem-solving skills. 
   2. Social studies builds civic awareness and foundational knowledge. 
6. Time Commitment: 
   1. Social science requires long-term dedication through UG, PG, and research programs. 
   2. Social studies is school-focused and short-term. 

 

Conclusion 

Understanding the difference between social science and social studies is essential for making informed academic and career choices. While social studies provides a foundation in society, culture, history, and civic awareness at the school level, social science takes a deeper, research-driven approach, offering specialisations, higher studies, and global career opportunities. 

For students planning their educational journey, starting with social studies helps build awareness and basic knowledge, while transitioning to social science allows them to pursue specialised disciplines, research, and international prospects. Social studies is the stepping stone, social science is the path to advanced learning, global exposure, and specialised careers.